Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus (8GB + 256GB) Review | 197 Data compared

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is deemed a well-rounded flagship, driven by the efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset and a 4,700mAh battery that delivers exceptional, long-lasting performance. Its 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is highly rated for brightness (up to 1,750 nits), while the 50MP camera system benefits from improved processing that produces more natural, balanced images. Key drawbacks highlighted include a 1080p resolution rather than QHD+, a 48Hz minimum refresh rate, limited color options, and significant, pre-installed system storage.

The CNN Underscored review highlights the Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23+ as refined devices featuring the high-performance Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor and exceptional battery life, with the S23+ lasting nearly 21 hours. Key strengths include vibrant 120Hz AMOLED displays and a versatile camera system, featuring a 50-megapixel main sensor and improved low-light "Nightography" capabilities. While offering a modern, streamlined design, the devices are described as an evolution rather than a revolution from previous models. CNNConversely, the review notes that the, S23 and S23+ may not feel like an essential upgrade for S21 or S22 owners. The One UI 5.1 software is criticized for including significant bloatware, and the phones' glossy, slippery edges are noted as a potential downside. Additionally, charging speeds are highlighted as lagging behind some competitors. Overall, the review positions these models as reliable, high-performing options, despite the lack of major, groundbreaking upgrades. CNN

The Samsung Galaxy S23 is highlighted as a compact, high-performance flagship featuring a durable design with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and a 6.1-inch, 1,750-nit AMOLED display. Powered by the customized Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, it offers top-tier gaming performance and a capable 50MP camera system, all supported by a five-year security update policy. Key drawbacks include limited 25W charging speed, a lack of UWB support, and average battery life compared to the larger S23 models.

The Digital Citizen review describes the Samsung Galaxy S23 as a refined, high-performance Android flagship, highlighting the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset as a major upgrade for speed and efficiency. It features a 6.1-inch 1,750-nit AMOLED display, improved, clean camera design, and solid battery life despite a smaller 3,900mAh capacity. While praised for its performance, drawbacks include limited 25W charging, the use of slower UFS 3.1 storage on the 128GB model, and the absence of UWB support.

The Samsung Galaxy S23+ is highlighted as a balanced, large-screen flagship powered by the efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 "for Galaxy" chipset, delivering fast performance and exceptional battery life. Pros include a bright 6.6-inch AMOLED display, improved low-light camera processing, and 45W charging, offering a premium experience without the excessive size of the Ultra model. Conversely, the phone's high price point, lack of a charger in the box, and absence of 10x zoom or S Pen capabilities are noted as drawbacks.

The Business Insider review positions the Galaxy S23 Plus as the optimal choice in Samsung's 2023 lineup, offering a superior balance of screen size, performance, and price over the Ultra model. Key advantages include a refined design without a bulky camera module and a comfortable, lightweight build that enables easier one-handed operation. Furthermore, the device delivers exceptional performance via the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset and outlasts the Ultra in battery, accompanied by high-quality 50MP imaging. However, the S23 Plus lacks the 10x optical zoom and integrated S Pen found on the higher-end Ultra, limiting its appeal to power users. The $1,000 price point is noted as steep compared to alternatives like the Pixel 7 Pro, and the device includes significant pre-installed third-party bloatware.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is presented as a balanced "middle child" offering strong performance due to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, excellent AMOLED display with 1,750 nits peak brightness, and phenomenal battery life backed by four years of OS updates. However, it lacks a standout feature like the Ultra's 200MP camera or 10x zoom, has a FHD+ display resolution, and a slower 45W charging speed compared to some rivals, which may diminish its perceived value at a premium price.

According to How-To Geek, the Samsung Galaxy S23+ is a high-quality, iterative upgrade with excellent battery life and strong performance due to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. While it offers a superb camera system with a 50MP main sensor and an upgraded 12MP selfie camera, the review notes a warm spot near the rear cameras during use. The device features a 6.6-inch 1080p 120Hz AMOLED display with excellent 1750-nit peak brightness and durable Gorilla Glass Victus 2 build with an IP68 rating, but the side buttons are described as too high and "mushy". Cons include its high price and a software experience (One UI) that some may find cluttered.

TechRadar describes the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus as a strong "middle-child" flagship with impressive performance, a great display, and improved battery life, though it's considered a minor upgrade over its predecessor. Pros include the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip, a bright AMOLED display, and excellent battery life, while cons are its high price, largely unchanged camera hardware, and slow charging speed.

PCMag describes the Samsung Galaxy S23+ as a balanced option in the S23 lineup, featuring strong performance from its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, a vibrant 6.6-inch display, durable build quality, and exceptional battery life. The device also offers a commendable camera system and a robust software update policy. Key drawbacks noted include its high price point, a lower resolution screen compared to the Ultra model, the absence of an S Pen and 10x optical zoom, and the lack of an included charger.

According to CNET, the Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus are primarily notable for their significantly improved battery life, achieved through slightly larger batteries and the efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. Pros include snappy performance and vibrant displays, while cons highlight a lack of innovation in other areas such as stagnant charging speeds and cameras that are sometimes outclassed by competitors. Samsung Galaxy S23£299.99& more prices4.5(22k)Samsung Galaxy S23+£438.53& more prices4.6(12.3k)

According to Tom's Guide, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is a polished flagship offering stellar performance from its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip, an exceptionally bright display, and significantly improved battery life. Pros include its excellent camera performance, often outperforming the iPhone 14 Pro in outdoor shots, and Samsung's strong update policy, but cons involve an underwhelming portrait mode, a display limited to a 48Hz minimum refresh rate, and a lack of significant innovation compared to previous models or competitors.

ZDNET reviewed the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, describing it as the "Goldilocks" model in the 2023 lineup due to its balance between the base S23 and the Ultra. Pros include its refined design, a vibrant 6.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with high brightness, significantly improved battery life from the 4,700mAh capacity, and snappy performance driven by the custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset. Cons noted were its charging speed, which remains capped at 45W wired, and iterative camera improvements, particularly aggressive skin-smoothing from the new 12MP front camera and the lack of the Ultra's 100x Space Zoom.

The Android Police review describes the Samsung Galaxy S23+ as an excellent, "just right" middle-child flagship featuring a bright 6.6-inch AMOLED display and the high-performance Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset. Key pros highlighted include exceptional multi-day battery life, superior processing speed for gaming, and a refined flat-screen design, making it a powerful, reliable daily driver. Conversely, the review notes the $1,000 MSRP is difficult to justify for existing S22+ owners, and the device is limited to 8GB of RAM with a 1080p display resolution, which is lower than competitors. Other drawbacks include noticeable shutter lag in low-light photography, the absence of an advanced 10x optical zoom, and 45W charging speeds that trail behind industry rivals. Ultimately, the S23+ is positioned as a superior alternative for users seeking a large, premium display without the bulk of the Ultra model, offering four years of major Android updates. It is deemed a solid, albeit iterative, choice for those upgrading from older devices rather than the previous generation.